Simba, played by 5th grader Piper Smith, is a young lion excited to one day be crowned King of the Pridelands. However, his world is changed forever when his uncle Scar, Brennen Pepper, carries out his plan of taking over his future kingdom. Disheartened, Simba is taken in by the carefree Timon and Pumbaa, Beatrice Mosley and Brandon Stoepple, who teach him to live the  carefree lifestyle ‘Hakuna Matata”. After running into his childhood friend Nala, Maya Days, Simba must decide to either run from his responsibilities or face his uncle Scar and bring peace back to the Pridelands. 

“This show is a great opportunity for students to dive deeper and challenge their musical skills,” says co-director Devon Handler. “Furthermore, they are also learning a valuable life lesson. Don’t run away from challenges and obstacles. Face them head on and fearlessly,”

Something unique about this show is it exposes the performers to several different African languages into the script, including: Xhosa, Swahili, and Zulu.

Co-director Audrey Rice states, "exposing students to different cultures through the arts is a huge part of her teaching philosophy, and she is thrilled this show is able to offer that opportunity."